Foreward

My intention is for this to be a Christian centred In Nomine campaign. I have always enjoyed science fiction and fantasy on television, in books and in role-playing games. There are some who disapprove of such things, considering certain topics as leading people away from God and towards the occult. I don't completely agree, but it is true that most stories dealing with the supernatural have no mention of God or the church. Perhaps the stories I write here will adjust the balance.

There are certain elements of In Nomine canon which I will ignore or change. Mostly these are the things described under 'In Nomine by the Books' (Game Master's Guide, page 79) for the New Testament. Jesus Christ is the Son of God, who came to earth, died on the cross, and now resides with the Father (off stage in the Upper Heavens). Human souls do not reincarnate, but judging who enters Heaven I will leave to God (servitors of Yves will be concerned with guiding people to God through Christ). Ethereals and The Marches probably won't play a major part in my plots (although I might tend to take Uriel's side when thinking of Ethereals). Gabriel's role in Islam is likely to differ from canon though the situation with Dominic remains (as always Yves stays silent on what really occured).

Christian readers should remember that these stories are fiction primarily written for entertainment. It is most definetly not my intent to belittle God or to insult people's beliefs. Rather I would hope to share my enjoyment of role-playing adventures with God and, with the blessing of his Spirit, to explore Christian themes and, perhaps, encourage others to think about the truths behind the fiction.

Campaign Style

In Nomine campaigns are often described in terms of Contrast, Brightness and Humour. Here is where I imagine my campaign will sit.

Contrast will be high. Heaven and Hell are diametrically opposed with the devil standing against God and seeking to corrupt His creation. Angels who serve on earth will be working to protect mankind from Lucifer's temptations and to lead people to the wonder of God's love. Demons will ultimately be trying to place a wedge between people and their heavenly Father. In my stories this does not prevent the appearance of 'Old Testament' angels bringing God's wrath to the forces of Hell (*cough* Malakim *cough*), nor does it mean that those humans who side with Heaven are in for a life of bliss and happiness (don't tell me the Archangel of Stone never read the Book of Job). Again, certain demonic characters may seem quite likeable and sympathetic - but the truth behind their lies will be something quite different.

Ultimately, the campaign is within an extremely bright setting. Christ has already defeated the price of sin and won victory over death. In time, God will claim all those who have come to Him and they will spend eternity with Him in Heaven. The forces of Hell and all who reject God are doomed to punishment. But in the meantime the campaign will have elements of darkness. Hell's forces are at work in the world. Mankind can exercise their free will to ignore Heaven and mess things up. From the point of view of humans on earth the setting may be relatively dark at times.

Humour requires a little more care. The themes of a war between Heaven and Hell for the soul's of humanity are very serious. Since I do believe in God, Christ's sacrifice for our sins and life after death, I have no desire to make a mockery of such things. Then again my stories are obviously a fiction and originate from a desire for entertainment. Please enjoy the stories as stories, but realise that many of the things they mention do apply to real life and should not be dismissed.

Apostle's Creed

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting. Amen.